Individuals interested in online instructional technology programs may learn how to assess the effectiveness of a school district’s curriculum and teaching techniques. Those enrolled should be strong communicators, know how to instruct others, have strong decision-making skills, and work well with their colleagues. Instructional technology degree programs are available online at baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels, while certain schools may offer a graduate certificate option.

Graduates of online instructional technology programs may seek employment in educational-based settings, including private and public schools, colleges and universities, or school districts. Graduates may have the skills and training needed to pursue a career as a curriculum designer, instructional coordinator, multimedia specialist, information technology director, or technology integration specialist.

Available Degree Levels

• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: Three to five years to complete

A graduate online certificate program in instructional technology may provide students the opportunity to design and produce computer-based learning activities as well as interactive multimedia materials. Courses may cover instructional design basics, media material production, online course design, and educational technology assessment.

Individuals enrolled in online baccalaureate programs in instructional technology may gain the experience and skills needed to seek entry-level employment. Select programs may offer areas of concentration, including interface design, business and organizational change, and general design. In addition to general education requirements, students may complete coursework in instructional design, issues in educational technology, adult learning and instruction, and evaluation of e-learning.

Online master’s-level programs in instructional technology may provide students with the latest in technology and multimedia strategies. Students enrolled in these programs should be certified educators, and some schools may offer certification as an Educational Technology Specialist. These online programs may feature up-to-date technology and include courses in multimedia production, instructional design, and emerging technologies.

A doctoral-level program in instructional technology incorporates theories of instructional design, digital technology, and performance improvement. These programs may be research-heavy, and students may need to complete a dissertation prior to graduation. Additionally, students may build and test instructional training materials for particular environments. Graduates of these programs may gain leadership and managerial roles in organizations that perform instructional and performance technology.

Career Options

Graduates of online instructional technology programs may pursue employment in several settings, including school districts, colleges and universities, state and local governments, or educational support services. Graduates may know how to oversee a school system’s curriculum, evaluate the effectiveness of teaching methods by analyzing data, stay current with teaching techniques, and train educators in new content or programs.

Possible career fields include:

• Multimedia Specialist
• Instructional Coordinator
• Information Technology Director
• Technology Integration Specialist
• Curriculum Designer